In this Greek vase, so unusual in shape that it is
impossible to classify it in the traditional
manner, we stumble upon a rollicking party of
Saytrs. The middle figure, leaps into the air, his
right hand grasping an ornate typanum. Upon
that drum he keeps time to the melody provided
by the reed-flutes in the hands of his
companions. Both painted as side-portraits, they
frame the outstretched middle figure- making it
seem as if the space he occupies is grander, and
making his leap that much more dramatic and
joyous. If we turn the vase we will notice under
the perfectly formed spout an enormous portrait
of the Saytr-beast which occupies the festival
directly left of it. This creature casts a gentle eye
upon the party at hand, his rounded nose and
delicate eyes giving a touch of gravity to the
whimsical face that is so dominated by the
massive ears and eyebrows. Turning the vase
further, our eyes fall upon a stunning and
intricate pattern beneath the spout. A fan of
palm fronds erupts forth from the base in
perfect symmetry- graciously curving inward to
allow a sinuous border to wrap around it and the
handle itself.
The shape of the vessel alone is enough to
propel it into the categorization of a
masterpiece. The offset spout is perfectly
symmetrical, and seamlessly and flawlessly
blends into the base of the piece. The cap is
perfectly and acutely angled, giving a surprising
element of sharpness to an otherwise completely
round and curved piece. Such craftsmanship is
rarely witnessed, even among the master-
potters of Ancient Greece, and such creativity in
regards to the shape, the placement of the
spout, and the structure of the cap is practically
never witnessed.
This piece is a masterwork, a paramount display
of artistry, pageantry, and the joys of celebration.
Who knows what three Satyrs sat in symposia,
pouring an endless maelstrom of wine from this
vessel, enjoying one another’s company as much
as the three depicted upon this vase? And while
it may no longer be able to serve the most direct
of its uses in the name of happiness and
friendship, the artistry and nature of the piece is
enough to do just that. What eye cannot be
charmed by so vibrant a scene, what heart by so
clear a depiction of love and camaraderie?
- (FF.21)
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